A round up of this week's coronavirus-related news and countermeasures from the photonics industry.

New production facility in Ohio designed to produce enhanced thin film PV modules, from mid-2023.

SPIE’s annual pitch competition features two photonics-focused tracks, honoring six winners in healthcare and deep tech.

Following rising demand from semiconductor sector, photonics group acquires new a property and will invest in cleanroom fab.

For new approaches to biometric access control, 3D locks, and intelligent sensing.

Aim is to provide “lotus effects” and other laser-created microstructures for wings, biological implants and more.

After pandemic hit last year’s sales, recovery is mainly due to automotive and mini-LED applications, says analyst TrendForce.

UK-based partnership of Microlink Devices, Wideblue and CSA Catapult to develop Covid-19 disinfection system.

Fulfilling a 2017 contract with European Southern Observatory for the ELT, which could use up to eight guide star lasers.

Curved designs mean simpler optical systems – like eyes with single lens; claimed to be “next major innovation” in imaging.

An opportunity for developer community to explore potential and create new applications, say partners.

Expansion for solar-focused Fraunhofer ISE; OPTICUM research center announced for Hannover; and Coractive plans new plant in Quebec.